Sleep apnoea is a common sleep disorder that disrupts breathing during sleep, leading to restless nights and serious health concerns. At Coolamon Dental, our Dentist Ellenbrook provides effective sleep apnoea treatment options designed to alleviate symptoms, improve sleep quality, and protect overall health. Sleep apnoea not only impacts the quality of life but can also lead to significant complications if left untreated, affecting both cardiovascular health and daytime energy levels. Treating sleep apnoea can reduce these risks, allowing patients to achieve more restful, rejuvenating sleep and enhanced overall well-being.
Causes of Sleep Apnoea
Sleep apnoea occurs when the muscles in the throat relax excessively during sleep, blocking the airway. Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing sleep apnoea, including age, weight, and anatomical features such as the shape of the palate and size of the tonsils. Conditions such as nasal congestion and family history may also play a role. People who consume alcohol, use sedatives, or sleep on their backs are more prone to experiencing sleep apnoea episodes due to increased relaxation of the throat muscles. Understanding these causes is essential in creating a tailored approach to treating sleep apnoea effectively.
Symptoms of Sleep Apnoea
The symptoms of sleep apnoea vary and often go unnoticed by the individual, as they occur primarily during sleep. Common symptoms include:
- Loud, persistent snoring, often interrupted by pauses in breathing
- Gasping or choking sounds during sleep
- Morning headaches and dry mouth upon waking
- Daytime fatigue and excessive drowsiness
- Difficulty concentrating and memory issues
- Irritability and mood changes
- Frequent waking or restless sleep patterns
These symptoms are not only uncomfortable but can significantly impair daily function and overall quality of life. Addressing sleep apnoea can lead to more restful sleep, improved energy, and greater mental clarity.
Treatment Options for Sleep Apnoea
Effective treatment for sleep apnoea involves addressing the cause of airway obstruction and supporting consistent airflow during sleep. At Coolamon Dental, our team offers a variety of treatment options, each suited to different levels of severity and patient needs:
Oral Appliance Therapy
Oral appliances are often used to treat mild to moderate sleep apnoea. These custom-fitted devices, similar to mouthguards, gently reposition the jaw to keep the airway open during sleep. By preventing the collapse of soft tissues in the throat, oral appliances reduce snoring and improve airflow. Comfortable and easy to wear, they provide an effective solution for patients seeking a non-invasive option for sleep apnoea treatment in Perth.
Lifestyle Modifications
Specific lifestyle changes can significantly reduce sleep apnoea symptoms. These may include losing weight, avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bed, and sleeping on one’s side. Incorporating these changes can enhance the effectiveness of other treatment options and provide long-term benefits.
Surgical Intervention
For severe cases where other treatments are ineffective, surgical intervention may be considered. This approach aims to remove or reduce excess tissue in the airway, improving airflow. Surgery is typically recommended only when other methods have not provided adequate relief.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is sleep apnoea?
Sleep apnoea is a sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts due to airway obstruction or a failure of the brain to signal the muscles to breathe. It leads to disrupted sleep and potential health risks if untreated
How does an oral appliance help with sleep apnoea?
Oral appliances work by gently repositioning the lower jaw and tongue to keep the airway open during sleep. This simple, non-invasive device prevents the airway from collapsing, allowing for better airflow and reducing apnoea episodes.
What are the risks of untreated sleep apnoea?
Untreated sleep apnoea can lead to serious health complications, including high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and daytime fatigue. Proper treatment lowers these risks and improves sleep quality.
Is CPAP the only effective treatment for sleep apnoea?
While CPAP is highly effective, other options, such as oral appliances and lifestyle changes, are also viable, particularly for mild to moderate sleep apnoea. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the condition and patient preferences.
How do lifestyle changes impact sleep apnoea?
Lifestyle modifications, including weight loss, avoiding alcohol, and adjusting sleep positions, help reduce the severity of sleep apnoea symptoms. These changes can enhance the effectiveness of other treatments and support long-term health.
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Where to find us
Coolamon Dental Centre
46 Mornington Parkway, Ellenbrook WA 6069
Booking:
You can book an appointment with us online or call us at 9296 9970. Please note your dental appointment is considered confirmed at the time of booking. We have reserved the time with our dentists, dental assistants and hygienists, especially for you. We will contact you prior to your scheduled appointment with a courtesy reminder but ultimately it is your responsibility to ensure that you arrive on time for your appointment. We know that life can get in the way and if you need to reschedule, please give us at least one business day’s notice and we will be happy to find a time that better suits you.
